Day 32 · Receiving God’s Word · (NET2)
Martha welcomes Jesus and works hard, but her service becomes distracted and resentful. Mary sits at the Lord’s feet and listens. Jesus does not condemn practical service; he lovingly addresses Martha’s anxious distraction and commends Mary’s choice. Time receiving his words is not wasted time. It helps us serve from fellowship with him rather than from the pressure to prove our worth.
Request
Lord Jesus, quiet my anxious striving and teach me to listen to you. Amen.
Read
38 Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him as a guest. 39 She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted with all the preparations she had to make, so she came up to him and said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do all the work alone? Tell her to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things, 42 but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the best part; it will not be taken away from her.”
Scripture: NET Bible, Second Edition (NET2).
Reflect
- What is troubling Martha, and what does Jesus affirm about Mary?
- Where has good activity begun to crowd out attentive fellowship with Christ?
Restate
Describe how listening to Jesus can reshape the way you serve.
Respond
Let the passage guide your prayer. Use these prompts in your own words:
- Praise: Praise Christ as the Lord whose words give life.
- Thanksgiving: Thank him for welcoming you as a learner.
- Confession: Confess resentment or distraction in your service.
- Intercession: Pray for someone overwhelmed by responsibilities.
- Petition: Ask for an attentive heart and a peaceful next step.
Carry it into today: Set aside a few unhurried minutes to reread a sentence before returning to your work.